Use a Burner Number for Protest and Activism Safety

Protesting is a powerful and important way to make your voice heard. Gathering to peacefully share beliefs and ideas to make society better for all can be an incredibly effective and empowering experience. At the same time, with large crowds and contentious issues, safety needs to be at the forefront of any protest—both personal and group safety. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re taking to the streets to send a message and safely protest. 

Meet Organizers or Friends in Public Spaces

Before heading to a protest, you might plan to meet up with some of the organizers or possibly people that you’ve met online to discuss strategies or to have a buddy to attend with. Have these meetings in a public place for both safety and transparency.

Until you’ve met and gotten to know any of the other protests attendees, avoid sharing your personal information. If you need to connect, use your Hushed number that is just for communicating while protecting your privacy. 

Be a protest friend: If you spot someone heading towards the rally solo, invite them to join your group on the walk. It’s a good way to meet other allies and extend the community spirit of a peaceful protest. 

Stay Alert for Fringe Groups

Even if you’re headed to a rally with the best of intentions to safely protest and simply share stories and make plans for action, sometimes protests attract fringe groups that don’t necessarily align with the original cause and can sometimes behave unpredictably.

While unity is important, remember to be mindful and aware if the tone shifts or things seem to be escalating. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much to amplify a crowd whose emotions are already running high.

Be kind and gracious (no pushing, etc.) and alert. Try to position yourself near the edges of the gathering so you can exit quickly if needed.

Basic First Aid 

Consider the weather and dress appropriately. A full water bottle to stay hydrated and plenty of layers is always a good idea and remember that it’s okay to put yourself first to safely protest and bow out if you’re too hot or too cold.

Remember that crowds can also be unpredictable and there’s a chance of getting jostled or shoved accidentally. There’s no such thing as being too prepared.

In addition to having your own ID card, health insurance info, and emergency contact written down on a piece of paper, having a fully-stocked first aid kit at the ready is a great idea.

Basic First Aid Kit Items:

• Band-Aids and gauze
• Instant ice pack
• Painkillers like ibuprofen 
• Antiseptic wipes or soap
• Safety pins, scissors, tweezers

If you see someone in need, shout “Medic!” and raise your arms in the air. Encourage others around you to do the same until the organisers have noticed the issues and help is on the way. 

Stay Anonymous 

When attending large demonstrations, your family and friends will likely appreciate regular check-ins for their peace of mind. Keeping them updated can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Anyone else you will be communicating with should be done via your Hushed temporary number. You should also take care to turn off location services on your phone and, as always, limit what personal details you share online.

Plan a Quick Exit

Before attending any rally or demonstration, try to familiarize yourself with the area and be aware of exit routes. Set a location to meet-up if you get separated from your friends and have a plan for a rideshare or public transit when you’re heading away from the area.

Remember that protests can be fun and electric and an incredible way to feel solidarity in support of an important matter. Raise your voice, use your Hushed number, and remember that small movements can affect big change.